NextUp provides members with invaluable benefits and connections, fostering growth and opportunity at every stage of their careers. Polly Rowland, a long-time NextUp member and volunteer, has experienced the profound impact of this community and credits NextUp as a key driver of her success. In this conversation, she reflects on the powerful skills and insights she’s gained through her involvement, offering a glimpse into how NextUp has shaped her career and role as a mentor.
Tell us a bit about yourself—your career journey, how you became part of the NextUp community, where you live, and anything else you’d like to share!
With over three decades of experience in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry, primarily in Sales & Marketing leadership roles, I’m passionate about mentorship and career development. This led me to found CPG Mentor, a coaching program that helps professionals with job searches, career advancement, and leadership growth. My 15+ years with NextUp reflect my dedication to empowering women in the workplace and supporting those in career transitions. I now reside in Indianapolis with my husband of 30+ years. After 10 career-related moves, I’m happy to be “back home” in Indiana and close to family.
What initially motivated you to volunteer with NextUp, and how has your experience measured up to your expectations?
I started my volunteer journey with NextUp over 15 years ago, when a mentor asked me to take part in an organization we were sponsoring. That request led to a relationship with NextUp that supported me through my corporate career, two layoffs, new roles in the industry, and eventually launching my own coaching practice.
I’m passionate about helping women advance, whether through networking, mentorship, or building leadership confidence and volunteering with NextUp became a natural extension of that passion. Connecting with like-minded women, offering guidance, and seeing career transformations has been incredibly fulfilling. My experience has exceeded my expectations and I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of strategic connections, professional development, and community support in helping women break barriers and achieve their career goals. In the process, I have built strong, enduring relationships with other women, which means the world to me and would have never been possible without NextUp.
Can you share a story from your time volunteering where you felt you were making a tangible impact on NextUp’s mission of Advancing All Women?
Throughout my time with NextUp, I’ve volunteered in multiple roles. As a board member in Chicago, our region was recognized as Region of the Year, thanks to our focus on goals, growing membership, building relationships with sponsoring partners, and hosting in-person networking events. I was proud to be part of the organization and continued volunteering throughout my career. I was also honored to serve as the Operations Officer for NextUp’s Anywhere Region, a 100% virtual space created during COVID-19 for women and allies without a geographic region. I was honored to work with fellow board members to create resources for over 600 remote members to help in their NextUp journey.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of volunteering with NextUp that has kept you engaged and motivated to continue your involvement?
The community and impact keep me engaged. Mentoring women, helping them gain clarity and confidence, and witnessing their growth is incredibly rewarding. I also value the connections with other professionals who share my passion for advancing women in leadership. Beyond the professional rewards, it’s fulfilling to know my experience can make a difference in someone’s career, whether through job search strategies, networking guidance, or confidence-building conversations.
How would you encourage other NextUp members to get involved with volunteering, and what benefits would you highlight?
I’d encourage others to know that you don’t need to be at a certain point in your career to make an impact. Every career journey offers lessons that can help others navigate their own paths. Volunteering with NextUp lets you expand your network, connect with inspiring professionals, support the next generation of women leaders, and develop your leadership skills through mentorship and coaching. It’s also a chance to be part of a movement driving real change in workplace equity and career advancement for women. Even small efforts, like offering resume feedback, LinkedIn introductions, or mentorship sessions, can significantly impact someone’s career.
What’s one key lesson you’ve learned at a NextUp event that has resonated with you over the years? How has it influenced your career?
One powerful lesson I’ve learned is that networking isn’t about transactions, it’s about relationships. Many professionals, especially women, hesitate to reach out or ask for help, but the most successful understand that every opportunity is rooted in connections. This lesson has influenced my career by reinforcing the importance of building authentic relationships, staying connected, and paying it forward, as others have done for me.
What has been your favorite NextUp event, whether regional or national, and why?
One of my favorite events was a panel on leadership transitions and career pivots. Hearing candid stories from successful women about their challenges, transitions, and growth strategies was inspiring. What stood out was the practicality. It wasn’t just motivational, but offered actionable advice women could immediately apply.
What are you most looking forward to at NextUp in 2025?
I’m excited to see how NextUp evolves in supporting women’s leadership, especially through mentorship, career development workshops, and networking initiatives. In 2025, I look forward to expanding mentorship opportunities, connecting with more professionals, and helping them navigate career transitions. I’m also excited to engage in more speaking opportunities to share insights on career strategy and job search success. I’m eager to deepen industry connections and see how NextUp advances women’s representation in leadership. It’s an exciting time to be part of a community making a tangible difference in women’s careers, and I’m eager to contribute in new ways!
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